Versatile footwear covers and methods relating to same

ABSTRACT

A footwear cover made of an elastic material is provided. The footwear cover defines a first opening and is moveable between a first expanded or stretched position for installing the cover on footwear and a second compressed position to form fit the cover to the footwear the cover is installed on. The cover may include a plurality of biasing mechanisms for form fitting the cover to the footwear disposed within the cover including one or more of the elastic cover material itself, a flat elastic band, elastic thread used to stitch one or more pieces of the cover together and a heel securing mechanism.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/840,439, filed Jun. 27, 2013, which is hereby incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to footwear covers, and morespecifically, a flexible, stable and versatile footwear cover andrelated methods.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Shoes are an important part of the wardrobe, providing both functionaland aesthetic benefits. Consumers may be quick to change their tastes,and often wish to have footwear having an assortment of colors andpatterns to complement the rest of their attire. Consumers may simplybuild a large collection of footwear, but this may be very expensive andrequire considerable storage space. Further, it may be inconvenient ifone wishes to change the look or appearance of their shoes throughoutthe course of a given time period (e.g., day, week, year, season, trip,etc.), for example, as they may be away from their shoe closet.Additionally, over time, the appearance of a shoe may decline or degradeto an unwearable state due to exposure to the elements such as sun, rainor puddles, dirt, and salt.

These concerns previously have been addressed by providing removableovershoes such as rubber galoshes to be placed over shoes to protect theshoe from damage caused by the elements (e.g., rain, snow, salt, etc.).Conventional galoshes are made of stretchable rubber materials that aregenerally less adaptable to a variety of different shoe designs andsizes, non-breathable, and require numerous different shapes and sizedto be provided in order to accommodate different styles of footwear. Onecommon trait between the different sizes and styles of galoshes is thatthey are intended to fit high over a shoe so that the elements they areintended to retard do not come over the edge of the galosh and come intocontact with the user's shoe, sock, stockings, pant, leggings or thelike. Due to the friction created between the shoe and rubber of thegalosh, these types of overshoes are not very easy to put on over a shoeand/or remove from a shoe. To address the latter problem, some overshoesor galoshes include a zipper or other external fastener in order to makethe galoshes easier to install over the shoe, however, the fasteners mayin turn scratch, mar, or damage a surface of the shoe or the user'sother clothing (e.g., sock, stockings, pants, leggings, etc.). Forexample, U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,102,265 and 2,623,567 as well as U.S.Publication No. 2013/0180127 describe overshoes which protect thefootwear from the elements.

Some attempts have been made to provide a sleeker form-fitting shoecover. For example, U.S. Publication No. 2008/0229615 to Yu describes ashoe cover having a stretchable upper member and top and bottomopenings. The bottom opening includes a bottom opening elastic hem stripthat wraps around an edge of the sole of a shoe to secure the coverthereto. Not only does such a configuration leave a portion of the soleexposed to damage and/or the elements, thus reducing the wearable lifeof the shoe, the portion of the cover extending onto or under the soleof the footwear may also create discomfort when walking due to theprotruding nature of this portion relative to the exposed sole area andexposes the cover to wear and tear due to the positioning of thisportion of the cover below the sole.

Attempts have also been made to provide a cover having a decorativeappearance. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,373,510 to Memole describes adecorative shoe cover constructed of natural materials having inherentlyflexible properties. While these materials are stretchable, the coversdescribed in the '510 patent have limits to their elasticity. Further,the components of the cover in the '510 patent are stitched togetherusing standard thread, which further limits the elasticity of the cover.Additionally, the '510 describes an intricate heel configuration that iscustom fit to a particular heel sizing and therefore, each coverrequires specific dimensioning to accommodate different heel shapes.Further still, the '510 patent uses a rope elastic band near the shoeopening, which can damage the shoe due to the strength of rope elasticand/or make the shoe uncomfortable to wear. Such a cover may need to beremoved from the shoe for extended periods of time due to the risk ofdamage. Thus, the features of the '510 patent combine to make acomplicated cover that may be difficult to apply and is not usable for avariety of different shoes having specific sizes and shapes.

Further attempts have been made to provide a decorative cover in U.S.Pat. No. 8,316,563 to Wegner. In the '563 patent, a specialized shoe isrequired that has a slot located on the sole portion of the shoe toengage with a frame of the shoe cover, thus securing the cover to theshoe. This frame only surrounds the outer periphery of the sole, thus,as with the '127 publication, a substantially large area of the sole maybe left exposed to the elements. The cover's frame may also creatediscomfort when walking due to the protruding nature of the framerelative to the exposed sole area.

Further still, to form-fit the cover of Wegner to the shoe, the cover isplaced over the shoe, which covers the shoe opening, then the wearerinserts their foot into the covered opening to create a sock-typestructure that tightens the cover about the shoe. With thisconfiguration, a barrier is created between the user's foot and theinner surface of the shoe which can cause the user's foot to move orslide within the shoe in an uncomfortable manner due to the lack ofdirect contact between the user's foot (e.g., skin, stocking/hosiery,etc.) and the inner surface of the shoe. In addition, the creation of anadditional sock type construction reduces the amount of circulationprovided to the user's foot prohibiting the foot to breathe as intendedin the shoe and thereby may cause the user's foot to sweat or make theshoe uncomfortable to wear for longer periods of time. Further, byconstantly being in contact with the user's foot during use, theelasticity of the cover may reduce over time which may result in anon-uniform cover appearance. Additionally, the cover may rip or tearwhen the user inserts their foot into the shoe's opening due to regularwear and tear from repetitively inserting of the user's foot into thesock-type structure of the cover.

Existing covers also may create stability and alignment issues when theshoe cover is attached to the footwear. For example, existing shoecovers may slip or slide relative to the footwear during wear and/orwalking, and thus may provide an uncomfortable and potentially hazardousexperience.

Additionally, while rubber galoshes or overshoes may be placed over ashoe, these products are oftentimes not visually appealing and serve autilitarian purpose of protecting the footwear from external conditionssuch as inclement weather or mud or dirt and the like.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Generally speaking, pursuant to these various embodiments, a footwear orshoe cover made of a stretchable and shape-conformable material isherein presented. The cover may be made in a wide variety of colors andpatterns. In some examples, when the shoe cover is placed over a portionof the exterior of the shoe, the appearance of the shoe is altered. Forexample, a shoe upper that is normally black in color may be quicklymade to appear to be a pink plaid by placing a pink plaid elastic shoecover according to the present invention over the shoe upper.Alternatively, the texture or properties of the shoe covering may bedifferent than the shoe such as, for example, making the shoe coveringof a water-proof material.

In one form, the footwear cover comprises a stretchable or elasticfabric material that allows the cover to form fit to the shape of thefootwear it is covering and for the cover to be used to cover a varietyof different sized and shaped footwear. Thus, rather than requiringnumerous different covers for every iteration of footwear, a few generalcovers may be provided that may be used to cover an entire category offootwear, such as one cover for use with high heels, another cover foruse with kitten heels, another cover for pumps, another cover forwedges, another cover for flats, another cover for espadrilles, anothercover for sandals, another cover for ankle boots, another cover for tallboots, another cover for sneakers, and the like.

In a preferred form, a “one size fits most” cover is provided thatcovers each general style or category of shoe disclosed herein due tothe design and/or configuration of the cover and the resultingelasticity of the same. For example, some of the embodiments disclosedherein include a flexible cover that may be used for all heeled footwearsuch as stilettos, kitten heels, pumps, or thick heeled footwear, asingle flexible cover for flats, low rise pumps, and wedges, and asingle cover may be used for all boots. More particularly, in someforms, the cover is not only designed with stretchable fabric, but alsostretchable thread for stitching the cover together in order to providea cover that is more elastic and capable of covering a larger range offootwear types and sizes. Such stretchable threads may even be used tomake covers out of materials (e.g., leathers, etc.) that have notpreviously been used due to the general inelasticity of the material.

In another embodiment, a flexible footwear cover is provided thatincludes a flat elastic band that allows the cover to form fit to thefootwear it is covering more easily, in a manner that is less noticeableand in a way that reduces the risk of the cover damaging the footwear(while either worn or not worn) or hurting the user while the footwearis worn. In a preferred form, the flat elastic band is hemmed into theopening of the footwear covering in a free floating manner so as to makethe cover less noticeable when installed over or on footwear and toallow movement of the flat elastic band with respect to the cover toaccommodate a user's heel or tendon in a more comfortable manner. Inother forms, the flat elastic band may be stitched into a desiredposition or orientation with respect to the cover, such as by using thestretchable thread discussed above.

In other forms, a flexible footwear cover is provided herein thatincludes a unique heel securing mechanism or member for maintaining theposition of the cover with respect to the heel while the cover is wornover footwear so that the cover does not move or slide while thefootwear is worn. In some forms, the heel securing mechanism allows forintentional movement of the cover with respect to the footwear or heelof the footwear, but prevents unintentional movement of the same. Forexample, in some embodiments the heel securing mechanism is specificallydesigned so that the flexible cover can be used with a greater range offootwear and, in particular, footwear with heels of varying sizes. Inthis regard, the heel securing mechanism allows the user tointentionally move the cover and specifically the heel securing portionwith respect to the heel of the footwear while the cover is beinginstalled on or over the footwear, but then prevents unintentionalmovement of the cover once the cover has been finally fitted on thefootwear and the footwear is worn by the user. In yet other forms, theheel securing mechanism includes a grip structure or wear pad andmaintains the positioning of the grip structure or wear pad and preventsthe heel of the footwear from moving with respect to the grip structureor wear pad while the footwear is worn by the user.

Each of the above-mentioned features may be used independently with aflexible footwear cover in accordance with the invention or in anycombination with one another (including all combined with one another)in further accordance with the invention. Thus, in some forms, theinvention includes a versatile footwear cover that includes a pluralityof biasing mechanisms for form fitting the footwear cover to thespecific footwear being covered. The plurality of biasing mechanismscomprising one or more of the above-mentioned elastic or stretchablefabric, elastic or stretchable thread, flat elastic member or band, andthe heel securing mechanism. For example, in one embodiment a flexiblefootwear cover is provided having a first biasing mechanism for formfitting the cover to the footwear being covered in the form of elasticfabric material, a second biasing mechanism for form fitting the coverto the footwear being covered in the form of elastic threading used toform the material into the cover, a third biasing mechanism for formfitting the cover to the footwear being covered in the form of a flatelastic band connected to the cover and helping to define the opening ofthe cover into which the user's footwear is inserted in order to installthe cover on the footwear, and a fourth biasing mechanism for formfitting the cover to the footwear being covered in the form of a heelsecuring mechanism for maintaining the position of the cover withrespect to the heel of the footwear being worn.

In addition to the above embodiments, a plurality of related methods arealso disclosed herein. For example, in one form a method ofmanufacturing a flexible footwear cover is disclosed. In another form amethod of assembling a flexible footwear cover is described herein. Inyet other forms, methods of covering footwear and form-fitting covers tofootwear are disclosed.

The foregoing Summary is merely exemplary. Consequently, the presentinvention is not intended to be limited by this Summary, but should beinterpreted in the broader context of the Description and in view of theClaims set forth below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A comprises a material pattern layout for a three piece footwearcover construction for a stiletto in accordance with our inventionshowing an open heel tip end for the user's shoe heel tip to protrudethrough so material does not cause slippage or interference with theuser's ability to walk;

FIG. 1B comprises a perspective view of the footwear cover of FIG. 1Aassembled and in its native or relaxed state resembling a compressedstructure;

FIG. 1C comprises a perspective view of a shoe being inserted into theassembled footwear cover of FIG. 1B;

FIGS. 1D-H are perspective, top plan, bottom, front, and rear elevationviews, respectively, of the assembled footwear cover of FIG. 1Bstretched over or covering the shoe of FIG. 1C;

FIGS. 2A-B are perspective and bottom views, respectively, of analternate two-piece footwear cover construction embodiment for a flat,with broken lines at the toe portion indicating the cover could be madefor an open-toe flat, and broken lines at the heel portion indicatingthe cover could include a third piece connected thereto, such as a wearpad, if desired;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an alternate three piece constructionfor a platform heel shoe, with broken lines at the toe portionindicating the cover could be made for an open-toe or closed-toe shoeand indeterminate length break lines indicating the cover could be usedwith a platform shoe and/or heel of any height;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternate two-piece footwear coverconstruction for a wedge shoe, with broken lines at the toe portionindicating the cover could be made for an open-toe or closed-toe shoeand indeterminate length break lines indicating the cover could be usedwith a wedge shoe of any height;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternate three-piece constructionfor a heeled sandal including fabric extending around the rear edge ofthe sole to attach to the shoe, with broken lines at the toe portionindicating the cover could be made for an open-toe or closed-toe sandal;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternate two-piece construction fora flat boot, with broken lines on the side and rear indicating potentiallocations where the upper portion of the cover may be stitched togetherand/or illustrating how multiple materials could be used to provide atwo-toned or multi-design element boot cover;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternate three-piece constructionfor a heeled boot, with broken lines at the toe portion indicating thecover could be made for an open-toe or closed-toe boot;

FIGS. 8A-B are enlarged partial perspective views of a heel securingmechanism in accordance with the invention taken from below and abovethe heel tip opening, respectively, for the embodiment of FIGS. 1A-H;

FIGS. 9A-B are enlarged partial perspective views of an alternate heelsecuring mechanism in accordance with the invention taken from below andabove the heel tip opening, respectively, and illustrating an alternateembodiment with a heel tip non-slip wear pad;

FIGS. 10A-B are enlarged partial perspective views of an alternate heelsecuring mechanism in accordance with the invention taken from below andabove the heel tip opening, respectively, and illustrating an alternateembodiment with a heel tip receptacle type non-slip wear pad;

FIG. 10C is an enlarged partial perspective view of the heel securingmechanism of FIGS. 10A-B taken from below the heel tip opening andillustrating an alternate manner in which the heel tip receptacle couldbe connected to the heel cover portion of the footwear cover;

FIG. 11A is a material pattern layout for an alternate a one piecefootwear cover construction in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention disclosed herein;

FIGS. 11B-C are perspective and bottom views, respectively, of the onepiece footwear cover of FIG. 12A illustrating the footwear cover afterassembly in installed on a shoe;

FIG. 12A is a material pattern layout for an alternate two piecefootwear cover construction in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention disclosed herein, and illustrating an optional friction orwear pad attached thereto;

FIGS. 12B-C are perspective and bottom views, respectively, of the twopiece footwear cover of FIG. 12A illustrating the footwear cover afterassembly and installed on a shoe;

FIG. 13A is a material pattern layout for an alternate four piecefootwear cover construction in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention disclosed herein, and illustrating an optional friction orwear pad attached thereto;

FIGS. 13B-C are perspective and bottom views, respectively, of the fourpiece footwear cover of FIG. 13A illustrating the footwear cover afterassembly and installed on a shoe;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a footwear cover in accordance with theinvention disclosed herein and illustrating an additional ornamentaldesign, such as a zipper, that can be affixed to a portion of thefootwear cover for decorative purposes.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding componentsthroughout the several views of the drawings. Skilled artisans willappreciate that the elements in the figures are illustrated forsimplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. Forexample, the dimensions and/or relative positioning of some of theelements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements tohelp to improve understanding of various embodiments of the presentinvention. As a specific example, the pattern shapes and layouts shownin FIGS. 1A, 11A, 12A and 13A are not drawn to scale in order to allowthe pattern pieces to more easily be understood and shown on a singledrawing sheet. Additionally, common but well-understood elements thatare useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are oftennot depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of thesevarious embodiments. It will further be appreciated that certain actionsand/or steps may be described or depicted in a particular order ofoccurrence while those skilled in the art will understand that suchspecificity with respect to sequence is not actually required. It willalso be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have theordinary technical meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressionsby persons skilled in the technical field as set forth above exceptwhere different specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawing figures in general, there are shownnumerous embodiments in accordance with the invention disclosed herein.In some forms or examples, a footwear cover in accordance with theinvention is illustrated includes an elastic fabric material thatdefines a first opening into which footwear may be disposed to cover thefootwear with the cover. In a preferred form, the footwear cover ismovable between a first position in which the material and/or the firstopening are stretched to receive a shoe and a second position in whichthe material and/or the first opening compress to form fit to the shoebeing covered. The footwear cover may also include a flat elastic bandor member connected to the cover at the first opening to further definethe opening with the material. Like the fabric material, the flatelastic band is movable between a first position in which the flatelastic band is stretched to receive a shoe and a second position inwhich the flat elastic band is compressed to form fit to a portion ofthe shoe being covered. The band preferably has opposing broad or flatsurfaces separated by opposing narrow edges. When the shoe is insertedinto the cover, one of the broad surfaces of the flat elastic band liesgenerally flat against an outer surface of the shoe to help disguise orhide the cover or make the cover less noticeable once installed on theshoe. In a preferred form, the elastic band is free floating in a hem ofthe cover so that the elastic band may move as needed to accommodateeither the shape of the shoe or a user's foot or leg (e.g., such as theuser's Achilles tendon) or clothing located near this region (e.g.,stockings, such as nylons or socks, etc.) so that the broad side of theflat elastic band rests against the user's shoe or against the user'sfoot, leg or clothing at the rear of the shoe in order to provide a morecomfortable fit.

As will be discussed further below, in a preferred form, at least someembodiments of the footwear cover disclosed herein will further includeelastic or stretchable thread that assists in making the cover easier tomove between the first stretched position and the second compressedposition and further that help allow the footwear cover to be stretchedbeyond what would otherwise be possible to accommodate a broader rangeof footwear shapes and sizes. For example, by utilizing stretchablethread, the footwear cover can be stretched beyond the limit of travelof the elastic fabric material itself. How far beyond this limit oftravel depends on several controllable factors such as the stretchablethread used, the diameter of the thread used, the type of stitch orstitch pattern used with the thread and how tightly stitched the elasticfabric pieces are to one another.

In some forms, the footwear cover may include a grip member or wear pad,such as a friction pad or friction-increasing material. This frictionpad may be connected generally under a toe portion of the cover and/orunder a heel portion of the cover (or both). The grip or wear pad may beconnected to the footwear cover by a fastener, such as an adhesive,stitch, staple or the like. In alternate forms, however, the grip orwear pad itself may make up the lower portion of the footwear coverrather than being connected to a piece of fabric or material positionedin this portion of the footwear cover.

In another preferred form, the footwear cover will include a heelsecuring member. For example, in one embodiment, the heel securingmember may be connected around a periphery of the heel of the footwearto prevent unintentional movement of the footwear cover yet still allowfor intentional movement of the cover, thus allowing the footwear coverto be used to accommodate different footwear shapes and sizes. Forexample, in footwear having a heel with a longitudinal axis generallytransverse to the surface the footwear is resting on (e.g., ground,floor, etc.), the heel securing member of the footwear cover may bemoved along the longitudinal axis or length of the heel to allow thesame cover to be used with footwear of different shapes and sizes and/orheels of different shapes and sizes. Thus, if the cover is used with asmaller heeled shoe, the heel securing member may be positioned lowerdown on the heel toward the bottom thereof; whereas if the cover is usedwith a larger heeled shoe, the heel securing member may be moved andpositioned higher up on the heel or further spaced apart from the bottomof the heel if needed in order to allow the cover to be used with such alarger heeled shoe. In other instances, having a heel securing memberallows the user to position the heel cover portion of the footwear coverexactly where the user would like. For example, in some instances such aheel securing member would allow the user to push or stretch the heelcover portion of the footwear cover down toward the bottom of the heelof the shoe being covered in such a way that the heel cover portionwould be retained in that position via the heel securing member whichmay not otherwise be possible if, for example, the heel cover portionwere resilient enough to pull the cover back up from the bottom of theheel. The heel securing member is generic to multiple shoe types, andthus, like the rest of the shoe cover, may be used with many differenttypes of shoes. Additionally, the heel securing member may be formedintegral to the remainder of the cover such that it is attached to theremainder of the cover so that both the heel securing member and thecover may be installed at one time.

In one preferred embodiment of the heel securing mechanism, a flatelastic band or member is used to secure the heel covering portion ofthe footwear cover to the heel of the shoe being covered. By using aflat elastic band as the heel securing member, the member is able to layflat against the heel and allows the heel cover portion of the footwearcover to not stick out or protrude from the heel and, thus, remain lessnoticeable or harder to see (e.g., more imperceptible) than wouldotherwise be possible with the use of other bulkier elastic materialsuch as rope elastic.

In other forms of the heel securing mechanism, the heel securing membermay include a receptacle, such as a cupped member with a bottom surfaceand protrusions, such as an upstanding wall, extending generallyvertically therefrom or transverse thereto. In one form, this cuppedmember is positioned below the heel of the shoe being covered and isconfigured to receive at least a portion of the heel. In a preferredform, at least a portion of the cupped member is sized to friction fiton the distal end of the heel of the shoe being covered to ensure thatthe shoe will not move with respect to the footwear cover andspecifically the heel portion thereof in order to prevent the cover frommoving or slipping while the covered shoe is worn by the user. In apreferred form, at least a portion of the upstanding wall of the cupmember are sized to receive the distal end of the heel of the shoe beingcovered in such a friction fit manner (if not the entire upstandingwall). In other forms, however, a non-friction fit may be desired inorder to make the footwear cover more easy to install on and remove fromthe user's shoe.

In some forms, the footwear cover may further define one or moreadditional openings to accommodate a design feature of the shoe beingcovered (e.g., to accommodate or mimic the open-toe portion of anopen-toe shoe, the sandal strap portions of a sandal, venting or otherdesign elements present on the shoe being covered, etc.). Thus, forexample, when an open-toed shoe is used with the footwear cover, theopen-toed nature of the shoe may remain visible. Such additionalfootwear cover openings allow the user's foot to breath and the coveredshoe to vent in addition to the venting that is provided by using thebreathable elastic fabric of the footwear cover itself.

The footwear covers disclosed herein may be provided in a variety ofdifferent configurations and/or constructions. For example, in one formthe footwear cover is made from a one-piece pattern configuration whichreduces the amount of stitching required and number of seems requiredand further helps in making the cover harder to see or detect wheninstalled on the covered footwear. In other forms, multi-piece patternconfigurations may be used to make the footwear cover. For example,specific two-, three- and four-piece footwear cover patterns andconfigurations will be discussed further herein, with each piececovering certain regions or portions of the covered footwear.

In a preferred form, the footwear cover covers the entire surface of thefootwear to be covered including the sole of the footwear. The specificportions of the footwear that may be covered by the cover include theheel counter, quarter, heel, heel breast, top lift, upper, toe box,sole, shank/arch support and the like. Alternatively, the footwearcovering may cover only some portions of the shoe and/or includeopenings as discussed above (e.g., to conform to, for example, open-toeshoes or for aesthetic effect, etc.).

As mentioned above, the footwear cover may include one or more tread orgrip pieces on the bottom of the cover to provide traction to the soleof the footwear and enhance comfort and use of the cover. In oneexample, the footwear covering may be provided with a first tread pieceon the forward portion of the sole (e.g., ball of the foot area) and asecond tread piece on the rear portion of the sole (e.g., heel area).The sole is thereby enhanced in areas in which it touches the groundwhile the user moves (e.g., walks, runs, etc.). The tread may providethe wearer with enhanced confidence, style and security while walking,running, dancing, etc. In addition, traction may be customized forparticular seasons (e.g., treads adapted for wet surfaces or forsnow/ice, for smooth/slippery surfaces, etc.). Furthermore, by coveringfootwear with any of the cover embodiments disclosed herein, the life ofolder footwear may be extended, and the cover may protect the footwearfrom scuffing or other damage during use.

In addition to these embodiments, various methods are disclosed hereinas well. For example, a method for manufacturing or assembling afootwear cover is described herein. The method includes providing astretchable fabric, providing a stretchable thread, and stitching thestretchable fabric into a footwear cover using the stretchable thread.As previously described, in some embodiments, the stretchable fabric maycomprise a one-, two-, three-, or four-piece pattern construction, thus,the method would include providing and stitching such pieces. The methodmay further include providing a flat elastic band located around anouter edge of the stretchable fabric and connecting this flat elasticband to the cover. In one form, the method of connecting the flatelastic band comprises hemming the elastic band into an edge of thecover and, preferably, an edge that defines the opening for the coverwithin which a shoe is disposed in order to install the cover on theshoe. The method may further include connecting a flat elastic band tothe heel securing member and/or stitching either of the flat elasticbands to their respective parts of the cover if a free-floatingconfiguration is not desired.

In yet another form, a method for providing a footwear cover isdescribed. The method includes providing an elastic material defining afirst opening, moving the elastic material and/or first opening to afirst position where the elastic material and/or first opening may bestretched to receive footwear, and moving the elastic material and/orfirst opening to a second position where the material and/or firstopening return toward a normally biased position or compress to form fitto the footwear inserted into the opening. The method may furtherinclude the step of providing a flat elastic band to connect to theelastic material at the first opening thereof to define the firstopening with the elastic material and positioning the band such that abroad surface of the band lies generally flat against an outer surfaceof the footwear when inserted therein. The method may further includeproviding at least one friction pad connected under the toe portion ofthe footwear cover, and the method may also include providing a secondfriction pad connected to a heel portion of the footwear cover. Further,the method may include providing a heel securing member that isconnected around a periphery of a heel of the footwear to preventunintentional movement of the footwear cover while allowing for intendedmovement to allow the cover to be used with or accommodate footwear ofdifferent shapes and sizes.

Thus, the cover may restore the appearance of older, worn out shoes andgive them a new appearance. In addition, the style of the footwear maybe modified without permanently altering the shoe itself. Since thecover form fits to the footwear it is applied to, it may be discreetlyworn such that it is not apparent that a cover is being worn, thusallowing for one pair of footwear to have any number of effectiveappearances. The cover also helps protect the shoe from becoming damaged(e.g., high heel shoes easily become scratched and scuffed, which makesthem unsightly). Also, the cover extends the life of shoes by coveringthe entire shoe to ensure weather conditions don't wear the color out orthe material out over time (e.g., direct source of heat will strip orcrack the shoe's leather or other material of its natural oils, leavingit cracked and distorted, and heels should be kept away from dampnessand strong sunlight due to similar damage these items cause the shoe).With the covers on the heels, can be left anywhere as the fabricprotects the shoes original appearance from being damaged and the coverhandles moisture better than the shoe's material (e.g., naturalsubstances like suede or leather, etc.).

While most embodiments of the shoe cover of the present invention willbe stretchable and adaptable to conform to the shape of a particularshoe, different designs may be provided for various types of shoes (opentoe and closed stiletto, open and closed toe thick heel, ballet flats,etc.). The material of the cover may be made of synthetic fiber such asnylon, lycra/spandex and/or a combination thereof, or of natural fibersuch as natural latex. As mentioned above, the cover may also include anelastic band around the opening defined by the cover, to hold the covertightly onto the shoe. Also, ornamental and/or utilitarian features maybe built into specific embodiments of the shoe cover, such as openingsfor open toe shoes, decorative bows, zippers, different aestheticpatterns on different portions of the cover, and other features.Optionally, the shoe cover may include padding in particular locationsand/or rigid or semi-rigid reinforcement pieces, as desired. The coveralso helps protect the shoe from becoming damaged (high heel shoeseasily become scratched and scuffed, which makes them unsightly). Alsothe cover extends the life of shoes by covering the entire shoe toensure weather conditions don't wear the color out/material (directsource of heat will strip the shoe's leather (or other material) of itsnatural oils, leaving it cracked and distorted. Heels should be keptaway from dampness and strong sunlight). With the covers on the heels,they can be left anywhere as the fabric protects the shoes originalappearance from being damaged. Cover handles moisture better than anatural substance like suede or leather

Referring now to the drawings, and in particular to FIGS. 1A-H, anillustrative example of flexible footwear cover 100 and footwear 102 isillustrated that is compatible with many of the teachings discussedherein. In a preferred form, the footwear cover 100 will be made using athree-piece pattern construction and, thus, we will begin our discussionwith such a configuration before moving on to alternate one-, two-,three- and four-piece pattern constructions. A three-piece patternconstruction allows the cover 100 to closely fit over footwear 102without noticing there is a cover applied. Further, the three-piecedesign allows the cover to easily be placed over the footwear whilelimiting bunching or excess material, thus making it appear as if thefootwear is not covered by external materials.

In the three-piece pattern construction illustrated in FIGS. 1A-H, thecover 100 includes first, second, and third pieces 104, 106, 108,respectively. In addition, one or more of optional items such asflexible band 120, heel securing portion 130, flexible stitching 140,and grip or wear pads, such as slip resistant or friction-increasing pador element 150 may be used. It is understood that the footwear cover 100is configured to accommodate many different styles and types of footwearas described herein.

The first piece 104 of the footwear cover 100 generally covers an upperor top portion of the footwear 102, such as the toe box, the vamp, and aportion or all of the shank/arch support. The second piece 106 generallycovers a lower or sole portion of the footwear 102, for example thesole, a portion or all of the heel breast, and a portion or all of theshank/arch support. Preferably, the second piece 106 is made of a singlematerial and sized such that it will not extend outwardly beyond theside of the shoe 102. The third piece 108 generally covers the heelregion of the footwear 102, for example the top lift, heel counter, aswell as the quarter and the heel breast.

In this example, the first, second, and third pieces, 104, 106 and 108,respectively, are constructed of a flexible or stretchable material thatis not molded rubber or plastic. For example, the first, second, andthird pieces 104, 106, 108 of the footwear cover 100 may be made of asynthetic fiber material, such as nylon, spandex (e.g., apolyurethane-polyurea copolymer such as elastane) or a blend of same oralternatively of non-synthetic fiber material, such as natural latex. Ina preferred form, any of the following materials will be used: Matte orShiny Milliskin Tricot 5.5 oz 80% nylon 20% spandex, width 58″/60″ firstquality fabric; Matte or Shiny Tricot 6 oz and/or 10 oz 80% nylon 20%spandex, width 58″/60″ first quality fabric; and Sheer Stretch Mesh, 82%nylon 18% spandex, width 58″/60″ first quality fabric. In alternateembodiments, other fabric may be used such as any 4-way stretch materialand/or Supplex or Moleskin. In a preferred form and to ensure thedesired “one size fits most” concept discussed herein is capable ofbeing attained, middle to heavy weight fabric will preferably be used tocontrol the accuracy of the size and universal feature of the cover. Inalternate embodiments a light weight or middle weight nylon spandexmaterial may be used, but such materials may be more likely to rip ortear while walking outdoors or on other surfaces. In addition, suchmaterials are typically more see-through or sheer and, thus, color ofthe footwear being cover may more easily be seen through the cover.Further, lighter weight 4-way stretch fabrics tend to shrink when cutand therefore sizing of product can be made more difficult when usingsuch materials.

The first, second, and third pieces may also be provided with a waterand/or stain repellant or resistant construction so as to reduce oreliminate the possibility of an unwanted stain from forming on theunderlying footwear 102. It is further understood that the material mayhave different appearances as desired, such as flat, matte, gloss,semi-gloss or shiny or reflective finishes, and the like. The first,second, and third pieces 104, 106, 108 of the shoe cover 100 may alsoalternatively be constructed of a generally less flexible material, forexample a wool blend, so long as a portion of the cover 100 has aflexible component to the material, whether that be one of the otherpieces 104, 106 or 108, or the threading used to connect those pieces(or both).

The first, second, and third pieces 104, 106, 108 are connected to eachother to form the footwear cover 100 using stitching 140. As with thefirst, second, and third pieces 104, 106, 108, the stitching 140 may bemade of a flexible material or corded strand such as a combination ofnylon and elastic, or of nylon or elastic alone. One advantage to usingflexible thread to sew or seem the pieces 104, 106 and 108 together isthat the cover 100 can more easily be moved from a naturally biasedcompressed state to an expanded state to fit over footwear 102 and canstretch to fit larger footwear 102 without causing damage to the pieces104, 106 and 108 or seams/stitching of cover 100. It should beunderstood, however, that in alternate embodiments non-stretching orinelastic thread can be used to sew pieces 104, 106 and 108 together ifdesired.

The flexible band or elastic strap 120 is constructed of a generallyflexible material and includes opposing broad surfaces 122 a, 122 b, aswell as opposing narrow edges or surfaces 124 a, 124 b. In one form, anedge of the first piece 106 is hemmed over using stitching 140 tocontain the flexible band 120. The opposing broad surfaces 122 a, 122 bhave a width generally in the range between 3 and 10 millimeters, andare preferably 4-6 millimeters wide. The opposing narrow edges 124 a,124 b have a width generally in the range between ¼ to 2 millimeters,and are preferably ½ to 1½ millimeters thick. Thus, thethickness-to-width ratio of the flexible band 120 is approximately 1:2.However, any desirable ratio may be used for the flexible band 120.

It is understood that by appropriately dimensioning the width or“tightness” of the hem, the flexible band 120 may be “free floating”within the area defined by the hem and thus not require stitching tosecure the flat elastic band 120 to the cover 100 and, specifically,first piece 104. Alternatively, the flat elastic band 120 may bedirectly stitched to the first piece 104 using stitching 140. The bandmay be spot stitched at regular intervals, or may alternatively bestitched along the entirety of the flexible band. This stitching mayfurther consist of a single stitch running along a length of the flatelastic member 120 (e.g., such as down the center of same) or mayalternatively consist of a plurality of stitches running along a lengthof the flat elastic member 120 (e.g., such as down opposite ends of theflat elastic member 120). These stitching configurations will bediscussed further below with respect to the heel securing member shownin FIGS. 8A-10B.

The footwear cover 100 may further include a slip resistant or anti slipfoot or friction pad or outsole 150 located near the toe area of thefootwear cover 100, which further promotes the life of the footwearcover 100. The anti-slip pad 150 may be constructed out of PVC, rubber,or the like, or any combination of these materials. The anti-slip pad150 may be secured to the footwear cover 100 by a fastener such as, forexample, adhesive/glue, stitching/thread, ultrasonic welding, or othersimilar fasteners. In a preferred form, the anti-slip pad 150 is bothadhered/glued to the footwear cover 100 as well as sewn to the footwearcover 100 at the edges of the anti-slip pad 150 using stitching 140. Bysecuring the anti-slip pad 150 to the footwear cover 100 in a redundantmanner like this, the strength of the connection and longevity of thepad improves to ensure that the pad will stay in place for many usesover the product's lifetime. Further, stitching the outer edge of theanti-slip pad 150 will reduce the likelihood that the pad will lift orpop up and cause an unstable walking surface or create a lip that cancause unwanted noise or friction when worn by the user and/or create araised surface that could cause a user to trip. The anti-slip pad 150further protects the toe end of the sole to extend the life of the shoe102 due to this end generally wearing out faster than the rest of theshoe due to weight shifts towards the front of the shoe 102 duringgeneral movement (e.g., walking, running, dancing, etc.). It isunderstood that the anti-slip pad 150 may be dimensioned larger orsmaller, and may not be used at all should the user so desire. Forexample, in some forms the pad 150 may extend up over at least a portionof the front of the cover and/or the sides of the cover 100 and footwear102 while in other embodiments remain well hidden or out of sight underthe sole of the cover 100 and footwear 102.

In some examples, the footwear cover 100 may additionally include ananti-slip pad 152 near the heel region of the footwear cover 100. Thisanti-slip pad 152 is configured in the same manner as the anti-slip pad150 and serves to extend the useful life of the heel of the shoe 102.For example, in some forms both the heel pad 152 and sole pad 150 may beconnected to cover 100 using adhesive and stitching. In other forms,only the heel pad 152 is connected via both adhesive and stitching andthe sole pad 150 is connected via adhesive only. In yet other forms, theopposite may be true. In some forms, the way the pads 150, 152 areconnected to the cover 100 will be determined based on the type offootwear the cover 100 is intended to cover. Other options for heel pad152 will be discussed in further detail below with respect to FIGS.9A-10C.

Turning back to FIGS. 1A-H, FIG. 1B illustrates the footwear cover 100in a natural or relaxed position, in which the cover has the appearanceof a compressed, shriveled or shrunken item due to the use of flexibleor elastic materials in the first, second, and third pieces 104, 106,108 as well as the flexible band 120 and stitching 140. As seen in FIG.1C, the footwear 102 is inserted or disposed into an opening defined bythe first piece 104 and flexible band 120 to initiate installation ofthe cover 100 on to or over footwear 102. The first piece 104 and band120 are then stretched over the heel portion of the footwear 102 suchthat the heel inserts into the area defined by the connection of thefirst, second, and third pieces 104, 106, 108. The footwear cover 100 isthen allowed to compress back toward its normally biased state andaround the footwear 102, and may be positioned into place such that itclosely conforms to the shape of the footwear 102 or form fits to thefootwear 102 as seen in FIGS. 1D-H. Thus, the footwear cover 100described herein conforms to the footwear or is form fitted to thefootwear 102 without the need for external fasteners such as buttons,zippers, laces, and the like.

By using the flexible band 120 to connect to the opening defined by thefirst piece 104, the broad surface 122 a lies generally flat against anouter surface of the footwear 102 when the footwear 102 is insertedtherein (or into cover 100). This flexible band 120 assists in securelyholding the footwear cover 100 onto the footwear 100 while not damagingor destroying the shape or structural integrity of the opening of thefootwear 102 which may occur when using other elastics such as ropeelastic. In this way, the elasticity of the cover fabric of pieces 104,106 and 108 serves as a first biasing mechanism or member forcompressing and form fitting the cover 100 onto footwear 102, and theflat elastic band 120 serves as a second biasing mechanism forcompressing and form fitting the cover 100 onto footwear 102. If used,the stretchable thread or stitching 140 serves as a third biasingmechanism for compressing and form fitting cover 100 onto footwear 102and the heel securing member 130 (which will be discussed next) servesas a fourth biasing mechanism for compressing and form fitting cover 100onto footwear 102.

With this configuration, the footwear cover 100 may remain on thefootwear 102 for extended periods of time without needing to be removedand without damaging the footwear 102. Further, the use of a flexibleband 120 increases user comfort as compared to other elastics in theevent the flexible band comes into contact with or rubs the skin of auser. For example, frequently the cover 100 will come into contact withthe user at an area near the back of the footwear (e.g., the user'sAchilles tendon, stockings, leggings, etc.). In such situations, one ofthe flat broad sides (122 a, 122 b) of the elastic band 120 will bepressed into contact with the user (e.g., the user's skin, clothing suchas stockings, nylons, etc.) such that the band 120 does not rub the userabrasively and in a manner which results in a more comfortable point ofcontact between the cover 100 and the user than would be the case if arope elastic or other abrasive structure was used. Rather, the flatbroad surface 122 a, 122 b of elastic band 120 disperses the point ofcontact with the user over a greater area and, thus, yields a morecomfortable contact than would otherwise be experienced with common ropeelastic members. In addition, the flat construction of band 120 furtherprevents band 120 from wearing through the cover 100 or hem of cover 100that captures and retains band 120, whereas a rope elastic would createfriction between the rope elastic band and cover (or hem of cover)causing this portion of the cover to wear needlessly.

Turning briefly to FIGS. 8A-B, the footwear cover 100 further includesheel securing region or member 130 as discussed above. In the formillustrated, this member 130 includes the third piece 108, flexible band126, stitching 140, and stitching 142. The flexible band 126 isconstructed of a generally flat flexible material similar to band 120discussed above. Similarly, as with stitching 140, stitching 142 ispreferably made of a flexible material or corded strand such as acombination of nylon and elastic. The flexible band 126 is secured tothe third piece 108 using a fastener such as stitching 142. Thestitching may be placed in a single position, such as a generallycentered position along a length of the flexible band 126 as depicted byreference character 142 a, but it is understood that the stitching mayalternatively be placed at any length or position along the flexibleband 126 and in a plurality of positions such as the parallel rows ofstitches at 142 b and 142 c. Alternatively, the flexible band 126 may besecured to the third piece 108 by other forms of fasteners, such asadhesive.

The heel securing portion 130 securely holds the footwear cover 100 onthe footwear 102 and thus prevents unintentional movement of thefootwear cover 100 while allowing for intentional movement of thefootwear cover 100. In the form illustrated, the heel securing portion130 securely holds the heel portion of third piece 108 to the heel offootwear 102. The heel securing portion 130 stretches to accommodatevarying heel heights, for example, between one and ten inches in height,and may accommodate varying heel widths. By leaving the bottom of theheel of footwear 102 exposed with the flexible band 126 surrounding theheel of footwear 102, the life of the footwear cover 100 is furtherprolonged due to the cover 100 not being subject to the downward forceof the heel of footwear 102 and friction present between the bottom ofthe heel and the surface the footwear 102 comes into contact with as auser moves (e.g., not being subject to the wear and tear that wouldoccur to the cover portion that would otherwise be located intermediatethe bottom of the heel of footwear 102 and the surface upon which thefootwear is worn).

As discussed with regards to the flexible band 120, by using theflexible band 126 at the heel securing portion 130 as opposed to ropeelastic, the flexible band 126 may be stitched in a desired position onthe heel securing portion 130. Further, due to its generally flattenednature, the flexible band 126 is disposed over a greater surface area ofthe heel securing portion 130 and thus may secure the footwear cover 100to the heel in a more uniform manner.

Thus, with this configuration, the footwear cover 100 may be placed overfootwear to provide both a protective layer as well as a visuallydistinct design different than the design of the footwear 102 in orderto increase the frequency with which the footwear 102 may be worn and/orallow the footwear 102 to be worn with different apparel. In addition tothe added protection to the footwear 102 due to the footwear serving asan additional protective layer from the elements, the footwear cover 100may serve as a barrier from the elements due to the use of resistantmaterials, such as stain repelling or water resistant chemicaltreatments, in construction of the different elements. By usingdifferent patterns or colors, the different pieces 104, 106, 108 orstitching 140 may provide an aesthetically attractive appearance that isdistinct from the original appearance of the footwear 102. Thus, byusing multiple footwear covers 100 having different designs, it ispossible to use these footwear covers 100 to virtually increase theeffective number of shoes in ones' wardrobe and/or increasing thefrequency with which a favorite pair of footwear may be worn.

In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 2-7 and 9-14, alternative footwearcovers in accordance with the invention are shown. For the purpose ofconvenience, items that are similar to those discussed above withrespect to FIGS. 1A-H will be referenced using the same latter two-digitreference numeral but using different prefixes simply to distinguish oneembodiment form the others. Thus, in FIGS. 2A-B, the footwear cover isreferred to generally by reference numeral 200. In this embodiment, thefootwear cover 200 is configured to accommodate footwear 202 which islacking a raised heel, for example a flat, and in the form illustratedincludes first piece 204, second piece 206, and optional items includingflexible band 220, flexible stitching 240, and anti-slip pad 250. Thefootwear cover 200 may also include an exposed area 205 should thefootwear 202 have a corresponding exposed portion, such as an open toeor heel or other designed opening (e.g., venting, strapping, etc.).

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3, a footwear cover 300 is providedfor a platform or pump 302. In this embodiment, the footwear cover 300is configured to accommodate footwear 302 having both a platform and anelongated heel and includes first piece 304, second piece 306, thirdpiece 308, and optional items including flexible band 320, and flexiblestitching 340. While the first, second, and third pieces 304, 306, 308may be elongated to better accommodate the dimensions of the footwear302, it is understood that the flexible nature of the footwear cover 300allows for footwear having varying dimensions to be used in thisembodiment. The footwear cover 300 may also include an exposed area 305should the footwear 302 have a corresponding exposed portion (e.g., opentoe, vent area, sandal strap area, etc.). For example, the footwearcover 300 may accommodate for an open-toed platform shoe.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, a footwear cover 400 is providedfor wedged footwear 402. In this embodiment, the footwear cover 400 isconfigured to accommodate footwear 402 having a wedged heel portion ofvarying heights and includes first piece 404, second piece 406, thirdpiece 408, and optional items including flexible band 420, and flexiblestitching 440. While the first, second, and third pieces 404, 406, 408may be elongated to better accommodate the dimensions of the footwear402, it is understood that the flexible nature of the footwear cover 400allows for footwear having varying dimensions to be used in thisembodiment. The footwear cover 400 may also include an exposed area 405should the footwear 402 have a corresponding exposed portion. Thus, thefootwear cover 400 may accommodate for a wedge-heeled shoe.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, a footwear cover 500 is providedfor a sandal or shoes 502 lacking ankle supports. In this embodiment,the footwear cover 500 includes first piece 504, second piece 506, thirdpiece 508, and optional items flexible band 520, and flexible stitching540. While the first, second, and third pieces 504, 506, 508 may beelongated to better accommodate the dimensions of the footwear 502, itis understood that the flexible nature of the footwear cover 500 allowsfor footwear having varying dimensions to be used in this embodiment. Inthis embodiment, the flexible band 520 is configured to wrap over andwrap against an edge of the foot bed area of the footwear 502. Thefootwear cover 500 may also include an exposed area 505 should thefootwear 502 have a corresponding exposed portion.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, a footwear cover 600 is providedfor a flat boot 602. In this embodiment, the footwear cover 600 includesfirst piece 604, second piece 606, and optional items including flexibleband 620, flexible stitching 640, and grip or wear pad, such asanti-slip pad 650. In this embodiment, the first piece 604 may bestitched to itself at a plurality of different locations as depicted byreference characters 640 a and 640 b. The anti-slip pad 650 may cover amajority of the second piece 606 to provide increased traction, as thefootwear 602 used in this embodiment if oftentimes used in adverseweather conditions.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7, a footwear cover 700 is providedfor a heeled boot 702. In this embodiment, the footwear cover 700includes first piece 704, second piece 706, third piece 708, andoptional items including flexible band 720, and flexible stitching 740.The footwear cover 700 may also include an exposed area 705 should thefootwear 702 have a corresponding exposed portion.

In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 9A-B, an alternative configurationfor a heel securing member or region 930 is provided. In the formillustrated, the heel securing member 930 includes the third piece 908,flexible band 926, flexible stitching 940 and 942, and grip or anti-slippad 952. In this embodiment and as illustrated the embodiment depictedin FIGS. 8A-B, the flexible band 926 of the heel securing region 930 isconstructed of a generally flexible material. The stitching 940, 942 isa flexible material or corded strand such as a combination of nylon andelastic. The flexible band 926 is secured to the third piece 908 usingstitching 942. In a preferable form, the stitching may be placed in agenerally centered position of the flexible band 926 depicted byreference character 942 a, but it is understood that the stitching mayalternatively be placed at any length along the flexible band 926 suchas at 942 b or 942 c. Alternatively, the flexible band 926 may besecured to the third piece 908 by stitching located a multiple portionsalong the flexible band 926.

The anti-slip pad 952 may be secured to either the third piece 908 orthe flexible band 926 and is preferably secured via a fastener, such asadhesive/glue, staple, weld or stitch using any type of thread includingflexible thread 940. In alternate forms, the grip or anti-skid pad 952may be formed integral with the flat elastic band 926 (as will bediscussed further below). Thus, with this configuration, not only doesthe heel securing portion 930 securely hold the footwear cover on thefootwear and thus prevent unintentional movement of the footwear cover900, the heel securing portion 930 also allows for increased tractionwith the ground when moving (e.g., walking, running, dancing, etc.) dueto the additional use of the grip or anti-slip pad 952. As with all thefeatures discussed herein, it should be understood that this alternativeheel securing portion 930 may be used as a feature in any of theembodiments described herein.

In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 10A-C, alternative configurationsfor a heel securing member 1030 including a receptacle such as cup orcup-like structure 1026 are provided. The heel securing member 1030includes the third piece 1008, cup-like structure 1026, and stitching1040 and 1042. In this embodiment, the cup-like structure or receptacle1026 may be constructed of a generally rigid material or a flexiblematerial as desired. As with the previous embodiments, the stitching1040, 1042 may be made of a flexible material or corded strand such as anylon, elastic, combination of the same or the like. The cup-likestructure 1026 is secured to the third piece 1008 using stitching 1042.In a preferable form, the stitching may be placed in a single positionsuch as the generally centered position of the cup-like structure 1026depicted by reference character 1042 a, but it is understood that thestitching may alternatively be placed at any length along the cup-likestructure 1026 or include a plurality of rows of stitches such as at1042 b or 1042 c. Alternatively, the cup-like structure 1026 may besecured to the third piece 1008 by alternate fasteners such asadhesive/glue.

In this embodiment, the heel of footwear (not shown) is inserted intothe heel securing member receptacle (e.g., cup-like structure 1026) tolimit relative movement therebetween (i.e., movement between the heel ofthe footwear and the heel securing member 1026). Thus, when the footwearis inserted into the footwear cover 1000, the heel portion of the shoeis constricted from moving relative to the footwear cover 1000, thusproviding for added stability. In this embodiment, the bottom surface1034 of the cup-like structure 1026 may include an anti-slip pad (notshown) to further provide for additional traction if desired. Inaddition, it should be understood that the receptacle/cup or cup-likestructure 1026 may be provided in a cylindrical or columnar form with aconstant diameter or may alternatively be configured with a tapereddesign that contains a larger diameter opening that tapers to a smallerdiameter opening near the bottom of receptacle 1026 so that thereceptacle taper serves as a guide for directing the heel of thefootwear being covered into position within receptacle 1026 to furtherassist with or simplify the installation of the cover 1000 on thefootwear.

While the previous embodiments have generally described a footwear coverhaving first, second, and third pieces, it should be understood that inalternate forms of the invention patterns comprising any number ofpieces may be used. For example, in the embodiment depicted in FIGS.11A-C, a one-piece footwear cover 1100 is provided for a shoe 1102. Inthis embodiment, the footwear cover 1200 includes first piece 1104, andmay include optional items such as flexible band 1120, flexiblestitching 1140, and grip or anti-slip pads 1150 and/or 1152. In thisembodiment, the first piece 1104 is stitched to itself at a plurality ofdifferent locations using stitching 1140 as previously described toprovide the one-piece footwear cover 1100.

Yet another embodiment is depicted in FIGS. 12A-C, but this timecomprising a two-piece footwear cover 1200 for shoe 1202. In thisembodiment, the footwear cover 1200 includes first piece 1204, secondpiece 1206, and may include optional items such as flexible band 1220,stitching 1240, and grip or anti-slip pads 1250 and/or 1252. In the formillustrated, the first piece 1204 is stitched to the second piece 1206at a plurality of different locations using stitching 1240 as previouslydescribed to provide the two-piece footwear cover 1200.

Still another embodiment is depicted in FIGS. 13A-C, but in this form, afour-piece footwear cover 1300 is provided for a shoe 1302. In the formillustrated, the footwear cover 1300 includes first piece 1304, secondpiece 1306, third piece 1308, and fourth piece 1310, and may optionallyinclude items such as flexible band 1320, flexible stitching 1340, andgrip/wear pads or anti-slip pads 1350 and/or 1352. In this embodiment,the first, second, third, and fourth pieces 1304, 1306, 1308, 1310 arestitched to each other (or one another) at a plurality of differentlocations using flexible stitching 1340 as previously described toprovide the four-piece footwear cover 1300.

While it is noted that the footwear cover described herein closelyconforms to the shape of the desired footwear inserted therein, it isunderstood that the footwear cover may include aesthetic embellishmentssuch as fasteners to increase visual appeal. Thus, in the embodimentprovided in FIG. 14, a footwear cover 1400 is provided that includesfirst, second, and third pieces 1404, 1406, 1408, and optional itemssuch as flexible band 1420, flexible stitching 1440, and embellishmentsor design elements such as zipper 1460. It is understood that theelements of the footwear cover 1400 perform in the same manner as thefootwear cover 100 depicted in FIGS. 1A-H, but include an additionalembellishment or design feature 1460 for aesthetic purposes. Forexample, this embellishment 1460 may include zippers, bows, crystals,buttons, sequins, patterns and the like. Further, any number ofembellishments 1460 may be placed on the footwear cover 1400 at anydesired location on cover 1400.

While the embodiments previously described herein refer to the use offlexible stitching, it should be understood that stitching of any type,flexible or non-flexible, may be used with the footwear covers asdescribed. Similarly, the footwear covers are not intended to be usedsolely with wedges, pumps, open or closed toe heels, flats and the like.Rather, the footwear covers described herein may be used with any typeof footwear wearable by a user.

Thus, it should be understood that in one form, a footwear cover isdisclosed comprising an elastic material defining a first opening andmoveable between a first position where the material and the firstopening may be stretched to receive footwear and a second position wherethe material and the first opening compresses to form fit to thefootwear inserted in the first opening. The footwear cover may furthercomprise a flat elastic band connected to the material at the firstopening, and together with the material, defines the first opening. Theband has opposing broad surfaces separated by opposing narrow edges andis positioned such that one of the broad surfaces lie generally flatagainst an outer surface of the footwear when inserted therein. Thefootwear cover may further comprise a friction pad that may be connectedunder a toe portion of the footwear cover. Further, the footwear covermay comprise a second friction pad connected to a heel portion of thefootwear cover. The footwear cover may be stitched together using aflexible thread.

The footwear cover may additionally comprise a heel securing member thatis connected around a periphery of a heel of the footwear. The heelsecuring member prevents unintentional movement of the footwear coveryet allows for intended movement to accommodate different shoe sizes.The heel securing member may comprise a cupped member having a bottomsurface and protrusions extending generally vertically therefrom, theheel securing member being positioned below the heel. Alternatively, theheel securing member is connected around a periphery of a heel of thefootwear and comprises a cupped member.

The footwear cover may further define a second opening. The secondopening may be configured to align with an open toe portion of thefootwear. The footwear cover may be at least a one piece configuration.Alternatively, the footwear cover is a two piece configuration where thefirst piece of the cover covers a heel portion of the footwear and thesecond piece of the cover covers a remaining portion of the footwear.The footwear cover may alternatively comprise a three piececonfiguration where the first piece of the cover covers a heel portionof the footwear, the second piece of the cover covers a top portion ofthe footwear, and the third piece of the cover covers the remainingportion of the footwear. The footwear cover may alternatively comprise afour piece configuration, wherein the first piece of the cover covers arear heel portion of the footwear, the second piece of the cover coversa front heel portion of the footwear, the third piece of the covercovers a top portion of the footwear, and the fourth piece of the covercovers the remaining portion of the footwear.

In another form, a removable footwear cover comprises a flexible coverhaving an opening and a flat elastic strip attached to the opening ofthe flexible cover. The flexible cover is configured to conform to theshape of an article of footwear and the flat elastic strap is positionedadjacent to an opening of the article of footwear. The removable covermay further comprise a heel securing member attached to the flexiblecover, the heel securing member configured to stabilize a heel portionof the article of footwear so as to minimize shifting between theflexible cover and the article of footwear.

The flexible cover may comprise a two-piece construction having a firstpiece and a second piece. The first piece and the second piece may besecured together to form an integral flexible cover where the firstpiece of the flexible cover conforms to the shape of an upper portion ofthe article of footwear and the second piece of the flexible coverconforms to the shape of a lower portion of the article of footwear. Theflexible cover may comprise at least a third piece being secured to atleast one of the first piece and/or the second piece. The third piece ofthe flexible cover closely conforms to the shape of the heel portion ofthe article of footwear.

The removable footwear cover may further comprise a friction-increasingelement attached to the flexible cover to reduce slipping between theflexible cover and a ground surface. The heel securing member maycomprise a flat elastic strap configured to stretch to accommodate theheel portion of the article of footwear. This heel securing member mayinclude an opening to allow the heel portion of the article of footwearto extend therethrough such that the heel portion of the article offootwear contacts a ground surface. The heel securing member may furthercomprise a friction-increasing element attached thereto to reduceslippage between the heel securing member and a ground surface.Alternatively, the heel securing member may comprise a cupped structurehaving a lower surface and an upwardly extending sidewall, wherein theheel portion of the article of footwear is positioned inside the heelsecuring member.

In yet another form, a versatile footwear cover is provided including astretchable cover fabric material having a first elasticity and definingan opening and recess within which footwear is disposed and a hemlocated proximate the opening defined by the material, a flat elasticmember disposed in the hem of the stretchable cover fabric material andhaving a second elasticity, stretchable thread having a third elasticityfor stitching the stretchable cover fabric material into the versatilefootwear cover and the flat elastic member into a band of flat elasticmember positioned about the opening, and a heel securing member having afourth elasticity and being defined by the stretchable cover fabricmaterial. In these forms, the stretchable cover fabric material isopaque or non-transparent. The stretchable cover fabric material and theflat elastic member are movable between a first position where the covermaterial and flat elastic member are stretched to fit the piece offootwear and a second position where the cover material and flat elasticmember are compressed to form fit over an exterior surface of the pieceof footwear. The versatile footwear cover also includes biasingmechanisms for form fitting the footwear cover to the piece of footwearbeing covered by the versatile footwear cover. These biasing mechanismscomprise two or more of the first elasticity of the stretchable coverfabric material, the second elasticity of the flat elastic member, thethird elasticity of the stretchable thread and the fourth elasticity ofthe heel securing member. In another form, the biasing mechanismsinclude four biasing mechanisms including the first elasticity of thestretchable cover fabric material, the second elasticity of the flatelastic member, the third elasticity of the stretchable thread and thefourth elasticity of the heel securing member, elastic or stretchablethread, flat elastic member or band, and the heel securing mechanism.

In addition to the previously discussed embodiments, several methodsrelated to the versatile footwear covers disclosed herein are alsoprovided. For example, in one form a method for manufacturing orassembling a footwear cover is herein described. In one form the methodincludes providing a stretchable fabric, providing a stretchable thread,and stitching the stretchable fabric into a footwear cover using thestretchable thread. As previously described, in some embodiments, thestretchable fabric is at least two pieces and in preferred forms maycomprise two, three or four piece pattern constructions. The method mayfurther comprise providing a flexible cover like those discussed aboveand further includes providing a flat elastic band located about anopening defined by the stretchable cover for assisting the cover inmoving from a first or stretched position wherein the cover can beextended over a desired shoe or footwear item and a second or compressedposition wherein the cover is form fitted to the shoe or footwear item.In one form, either or both the flexible cover and flat elastic bandbiases the cover toward a compressed position. In another form,stretchable thread is used to bias the cover toward the compressedposition (either on its own or in combination or in addition to any oneof the flexible cover and flat elastic band, which includes in additionto both as well). In yet another form, the heel securing mechanism isused to bias the cover toward a compressed position (either on its ownor in combination with one or more of the flexible cover, flat elasticband and flexible thread).

In other embodiments, a method of manufacturing a flexible footwearcover is provided herein. In one form, the method includes providing astretchable cover fabric material that is capable of covering a majorityof an exterior of a piece of footwear in a non-transparent manner andbeing shaped into one or more pieces with at least one piece defining anopening through which the piece of footwear is disposed when installingthe cover, forming a hem in the stretchable cover fabric materialproximate to the opening through which the footwear is disposed, anddisposing a first flat elastic band within the hem. The materialdefining the opening and the first flat elastic band are movable betweena first stretched position where the footwear may be disposed within theopening and a second compressed position where the material and the flatelastic band are form fitted to the exterior of the footwear.

In other forms, the method further includes providing a heel securingmember made from the stretchable cover fabric material that is connectedto the at least one piece defining the opening through which the pieceof footwear is disposed. In some forms, the heel securing member mayfurther include a second flat elastic band, and the method furtherincludes connecting the second flat elastic band to the material of theheel securing member. The material may be shaped into at least twopieces, with a first piece including the one piece defining the openingthrough which the footwear is disposed and a second piece including theheel securing member. These two pieces may be connected to one anotherto form the flexible footwear cover.

The material of the heel securing member and the second flat elasticband may be movable between a first normally biased position and asecond expanded position where the material of the heel securing memberand the second flat elastic band are stretched to fit a heel portion ofthe footwear. In other forms, the method further includes stitching thesecond flat elastic band to the material of the heel securing member tosecure the second flat elastic band to the material of the heel securingmember.

In yet another form, after the hem being formed and the flat elasticband is inserted, the cover material is stitched together to form theopening. When the cover material is stitched together to form theopening, distal ends of the elastic bands are also stitched togethergenerally at the same location to define the opening. In an alternativeform, the elastic band may be placed over the material and the hem isthen formed to cover the flat elastic band. When the material isstitched to define the opening through which the footwear is disposed,distal ends of the elastic bands are also stitched together to furtherdefine the opening generally at the same location.

In other embodiments, a method for providing a footwear cover isdescribed. The method includes providing an elastic material defining afirst opening, moving the elastic material to a first position where theelastic material and first opening may be stretched to receive footwear,and moving the elastic material to a second position where the materialand the first opening compress to form fit to the footwear inserted intothe opening. The method may further include the step of providing a flatelastic band to connect to the elastic material at the first openingthereof to define the first opening with the elastic material andpositioning the band such that a broad surface of the band liesgenerally flat against an outer surface of the footwear when insertedtherein and/or generally flat against the user, e.g., against the user'sskin, clothing (e.g., stockings, socks, hosiery, leggings) or the like.The method may further include providing at least one friction padconnected under the toe portion of the footwear cover, and the methodmay also include providing a second friction pad connected to a heelportion of the footwear cover. Further, the method may include providinga heel securing member that is connected around a periphery of a heel ofthe footwear to prevent unintentional movement of the footwear coverwhile allowing for intended movement to accommodate different sizes.

In yet other examples, a method of manufacturing a versatile footwearcover that form fits to an exterior surface of a piece of footwear isprovided. The method includes providing an opaque or non-transparentstretchable cover fabric material having a first elasticity and a hemlocated proximate to an opening defined and recess within which a pieceof footwear is disposed, providing a flat elastic member disposed in thehem of the stretchable cover fabric material and having a secondelasticity, providing stretchable thread having a third elasticity, andproviding a heel securing member defined by the stretchable cover fabricmaterial and having a fourth elasticity. The method further includesstitching the stretchable cover fabric, flat elastic member and heelsecuring member into the versatile footwear cover so that the versatilefootwear cover is moveable between a first position where the cover iscompressed and a second position wherein the cover is stretched toreceive the piece of footwear being covered and biasing the versatilefootwear cover toward the first position via a plurality of biasingmechanisms to form fit the footwear cover to the piece of footwear beingcovered by the versatile footwear cover. In these examples, theplurality of biasing mechanisms comprise two or more of the firstelasticity of the stretchable cover fabric material, the secondelasticity of the flat elastic member, the third elasticity of thestretchable thread and the fourth elasticity of the heel securingmember.

Additionally, methods of covering footwear, biasing footwear covers intoa form fitting configuration and protecting footwear are contemplatedand disclosed herein. For example, a method of covering footwearaccording to any of the embodiments disclosed herein is contemplated anddisclosed herein. Similarly, methods for biasing footwear covers intoform fitting configurations are contemplated and disclosed hereinwherein the cover includes a plurality of biasing mechanism into a formfitting configuration on footwear that the cover is installed onincluding any two or more of the following biasing mechanisms: the covermaterial itself and elasticity of same; the flat elastic band or memberand elasticity of same; the stretchable thread used to stitch the coverinto a finished cover shape or product and elasticity of same; and heelsecuring mechanism and elasticity of same.

It will be apparent from the foregoing that, while particular forms ofthe invention have been illustrated and described, various modificationscan be made without parting from the spirit and scope of the invention.Other variations may be made within the scope of the invention.Consequently, the invention is not limited to the foregoing illustratedembodiments, which are presented for purposes of illustration and not oflimitation.

What is claimed is:
 1. A removable footwear cover comprising: a flexiblecover configured to closely conform to the shape of an article offootwear without the use of an external fastener; a flat elastic stripattached to an opening of the flexible cover, the flat elastic strapbeing positioned adjacent to an opening of the article of footwear; aheel securing member attached to the flexible cover, the heel securingmember configured to maintain a position of the flexible cover withrespect to a heel portion of the article of footwear so as to reduce orhinder shifting between the flexible cover and the article of footwear.2. The removable footwear cover of claim 1, wherein the flexible covercomprises a two-piece construction having a first piece and a secondpiece, the first piece and the second piece being secured together toform an integral flexible cover, wherein the first piece of the flexiblecover closely conforms to the shape of an upper portion of the articleof footwear and the second piece of the flexible cover closely conformsto the shape of a lower portion of the article of footwear.
 3. Theremovable footwear cover of claim 2, wherein the flexible cover furthercomprises at least a third piece being secured to at least one of thefirst piece and/or the second piece, wherein the third piece of theflexible cover closely conforms to the shape of the heel portion of thearticle of footwear.
 4. The removable footwear attachment of claim 1,further comprising a friction-increasing element attached to theflexible cover to reduce slipping between the flexible cover and aground surface.
 5. The removable footwear cover of claim 1, wherein theheel securing member comprises a flat elastic strap configured tostretch to accommodate the heel portion of the article of footwear. 6.The removable footwear cover of claim 5, wherein the heel securingmember includes an opening to allow the heel portion of the article offootwear to extend therethrough such that the heel portion of thearticle of footwear contacts a ground surface.
 7. The removable footwearcover of claim 5, wherein the heel securing member further comprises afriction-increasing element attached thereto to reduce slippage betweenthe heel securing member and a ground surface.
 8. The removable footwearcover of claim 1, wherein the heel securing member comprises a cuppedstructure having a lower surface and an upwardly extending sidewall,wherein the heel portion of the article of footwear is positioned insidethe heel securing member.
 9. A versatile footwear cover comprising: astretchable cover fabric material having a first elasticity and definingan opening and recess within which a piece of footwear is disposed, thecover fabric material being opaque or non-transparent and having a hemlocated proximate the opening defined by the stretchable cover fabricmaterial; a flat elastic member disposed in the hem of the stretchablecover fabric material and having a second elasticity, the stretchablecover fabric material and flat elastic member being moveable between afirst position wherein the cover material and flat elastic member arestretched to fit the piece of footwear and a second position wherein thecover material and flat elastic member are compressed to form fit overan exterior surface of the piece of footwear; stretchable thread forstitching the stretchable cover fabric material into the versatilefootwear cover and the flat elastic member into a band of flat elasticmember positioned about the opening defined by the stretchable coverfabric material, the stretchable thread having a third elasticity; and aheel securing member defined by the stretchable cover fabric materialand having a fourth elasticity; wherein the versatile footwear coverincludes a plurality of biasing mechanisms for form fitting the footwearcover to the piece of footwear being covered by the versatile footwearcover, the plurality of biasing mechanisms comprising two or more of thefirst elasticity of the stretchable cover fabric material, the secondelasticity of the flat elastic member, the third elasticity of thestretchable thread and the fourth elasticity of the heel securingmember.
 10. The versatile footwear cover of claim 9, wherein theplurality of biasing mechanism comprises four biasing mechanismsincluding the first elasticity of the stretchable cover fabric material,the second elasticity of the flat elastic member, the third elasticityof the stretchable thread and the fourth elasticity of the heel securingmember, elastic or stretchable thread, flat elastic member or band, andthe heel securing mechanism.
 11. A method of manufacturing a flexiblefootwear cover comprising: providing a stretchable cover fabric materialcapable of covering at least a majority of an exterior of a piece offootwear in a non-transparent manner and shaped into one or more pieceswith at least one piece defining an opening through which the piece offootwear is disposed when installing the cover; forming a hem in the atleast one piece of material defining the opening through which thefootwear is disposed, the hem being positioned proximate to the openingdefined by the at least one piece of material; and disposing a firstflat elastic band within the hem, the at least one piece defining theopening through which the footwear is disposed and the first flatelastic band being movable between a first stretched position whereinthe piece of footwear may be disposed within the opening of the at leastone piece and a second compressed position wherein the at least onepiece and first flat elastic band are form fitted to the exterior of thepiece of footwear.
 12. The method of claim 11, comprising providing aheel securing member made from the stretchable cover fabric material,the heel securing member being connected to the at least one piecedefining the opening through which the piece of footwear is disposed.13. The method of claim 12, wherein the heel securing member furtherincludes a second flat elastic band and the method further comprisesconnecting the second flat elastic band to the stretchable cover fabricmaterial of the heel securing member, the stretchable cover fabricmaterial of the heel securing member and the second flat elastic bandbeing movable between a first normally biased position and a secondexpanded position wherein the stretchable cover fabric material of theheel securing member and the second flat elastic band are stretched tofit a heel portion of the piece of footwear.
 14. The method of claim 13,comprising stitching the second flat elastic band to the stretchablecover fabric material of the heel securing member to secure the secondflat elastic band to the stretchable cover fabric material of the heelsecuring member.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the stretchablecover fabric material is shaped into at least two pieces, with a firstpiece comprising the at least one piece defining the opening throughwhich the piece of footwear is disposed and a second piece comprisingthe heel securing member, the method further comprising connecting theat least two pieces to one another to form the flexible footwear cover.